The Reds could do with strengthening in the middle of the park after some unconvincing performances from their ageing captain Steven Gerrard at the start of this season, and Carvalho now seems to be a priority for Brendan Rodgers this winter.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have previously been the frontrunners for the impressive Portuguese international, 22, who came close to quitting Sporting during the summer.

A move in January seems highly likely for this sought-after talent, and Rodgers will be hoping he can do enough to persuade him to make the move to Anfield.